Rhode Island – Cold pavement and a sharp breeze set the stage this morning as southern New England braces for a wintry transition. Clouds thicken through the day, and snow develops late, arriving just as New Year’s celebrations wind down and travel picks up.
According to the National Weather Service, snow moves into Providence mainly between late evening and the pre-dawn hours of New Year’s Day. Accumulations remain light, generally around an inch or less, but timing raises concern. Cold road surfaces allow snow to stick quickly, especially on untreated streets.
In Providence, Cranston, Warwick, and Pawtucket, drivers should prepare for slick conditions on I-95, I-195, Route 6, and neighborhood roads. Bridges and overpasses cool fastest and may ice over first. Even brief snow showers can reduce visibility during overnight and early-morning travel.
Snow tapers by morning, then skies gradually brighten. Highs hover near the lower 30s, limiting melting. Any slush that forms may refreeze after sunset, increasing black ice risk into Thursday night. Northwest winds add bite, keeping wind chills in the teens.
Friday turns colder but quieter. Sunshine returns, yet highs stay in the upper 20s. Overnight lows dip into the teens, locking in icy patches where snow lingers. The first weekend of 2026 stays dry but cold. Saturday and Sunday remain partly sunny with highs near 29.
Plan extra travel time, slow down on slick roads, and watch for icy sidewalks. Winter weather is firmly in place as 2026 begins. Heading out for New Year’s travel? Tell us what conditions look like where you are.
Five-Day Outlook for Providence, RI
- Today: Partly sunny. High near 32°F.
- Tonight: Snow develops late. Around 1 inch possible. Low near 22°F.
- New Year’s Day: Morning snow showers, then clearing. High near 32°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny. High near 27°F.
- Saturday: Sunny and cold. High near 29°F.
